Council issues dog warden imposter warning

DOG owners are being asked to be on the lookout for man impersonating a council dog warden

A concerned Shoreham resident has contacted Adur District Council after a number of dog walkers were approached on Adur Recreation Ground by a man pretending to be one of the council’s dog wardens.

After stopping the walkers and their pets, the man informed them that he could give them £100 on-the-spot fines if they were not carrying bags to pick up their animals’ waste.

Allegedly, he also incorrectly informed them that walking their pets along the tow path behind the house boats has been banned by the council.

Andy Edwards, Adur District Council’s head of environment, said: “All of our staff carry name badges which clearly identify who they are, with both a name and a photograph. If you are approached by someone claiming to be from the council and have any concerns, please call the contact centre on 01903 239999.

“Genuine employees from either Adur District or Worthing Borough Councils will never object to being asked to wait while their identities are confirmed.”

The dog warden team has already reported the imposter to Sussex Police. Anyone approached by him should inform Sussex Police using the 101 non-emergency number and quoting reference number 228 dated 06/08/2015.

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